What to Do If Your Car Gets Towed: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having your car towed can be an overwhelming and frustrating situation. Whether it’s due to illegal parking, vehicle breakdown, or private property towing, knowing what steps to take can save you time, money, and frustration. At D&G Towing, we’re here to help you navigate the process confidently with this step-by-step guide—and yes, we’re dropping a lot of expert tips.

Step 1: Confirm That Your Car Has Been Towed

Before jumping to conclusions, make sure your vehicle hasn’t been stolen. Check with local parking authorities, law enforcement, or businesses nearby if your car was parked in a private lot. Private property towing services are common, especially when vehicles are left in restricted areas.

Related read: The Role of Private Property Towing Services in Parking Management

Step 2: Identify the Towing Company Involved

Once confirmed, the next step is finding out which towing company has your vehicle. In Fresno, reliable towing services like ours keep a record of towed vehicles. Contact the local police non-emergency number—they usually have details of the towing truck that took your car.

Pro Tip: Avoid falling victim to scams. Here's how—How to Avoid Getting Scammed by Unlicensed Towing Companies

Step 3: Understand Why Your Car Was Towed

Cars may be towed for a variety of reasons:

  • Illegal parking

  • Abandonment

  • Blocking driveways or fire lanes

  • Unpaid tickets or expired registration

  • Mechanical breakdowns (we offer local towing services for these!)

Learn more: Why Choose Professional Towing in Fresno, CA

Step 4: Retrieve Your Vehicle

Call the towing company to find out where your car is and what you need to bring (usually ID, proof of ownership, and payment). Reputable towing services like D&G Towing will provide clear instructions and affordable pricing.

Bonus read: Safe Vehicle Towing: Preventing Damage and Ensuring Security

Step 5: Pay the Fees and Check for Damage

You’ll typically need to pay the towing fee and storage costs. Once you’ve paid, inspect your car thoroughly before driving off. If you notice any damage, take pictures immediately and contact the towing company for clarification.

Explore: The Evolution of Towing Technology: From Hook and Chain to Flatbeds

Step 6: Prevent Future Tows

Avoiding future towing incidents is simple if you:

  • Park legally

  • Avoid expired meters

  • Maintain your vehicle to prevent breakdowns

Bonus Resources: Your Towing and Roadside Lifeline

Need more info on what to do when disaster strikes on the road? Check out these knowledge-packed blog posts to stay one step ahead:

Why D&G Towing Is Your Go-To Towing Company in Fresno

With years of experience, cutting-edge towing trucks, and a team of reliable pros, D&G Towing is Fresno’s trusted name for all types of towing services—from emergency roadside assistance to junk car removal and long-distance towing.

Explore our full range of services:

Need help now? Contact us anytime. Our towing company is available around the clock to get you back on the road—fast.

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